What is Ubrelvy (Ubrogepant)?
Ubrelvy is a brand-name prescription medication, with the active ingredient ubrogepant, approved by the FDA for the acute treatment of migraine attacks in adults, with or without aura [1.7.4, 1.2.4]. It belongs to a class of drugs called calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists, also known as "gepants" [1.7.1, 1.8.1].
Mechanism of Action
During a migraine attack, the body releases a protein called CGRP, which is involved in pain signaling and inflammation [1.7.5]. Ubrelvy works by blocking CGRP from attaching to its receptors, thereby interrupting the pain signals that cause migraine headaches [1.7.1, 1.7.3]. Unlike older migraine medications such as triptans, which can constrict blood vessels, gepants like Ubrelvy are not known to cause vasoconstriction, making them a potential option for individuals with certain cardiovascular risk factors [1.4.5]. Ubrelvy is not a narcotic and is not indicated for the prevention of migraines [1.7.4].
Is There a Generic Version of Ubrelvy Currently Available?
As of September 2025, there is no generic version of Ubrelvy available in the United States [1.2.3, 1.4.1]. The active ingredient, ubrogepant, is only sold under the brand name Ubrelvy [1.2.2].
Drug Patents and Generic Availability
The reason a generic is not yet available is due to drug patents held by the manufacturer, AbbVie [1.4.5]. These patents grant the company exclusive rights to sell the medication for a set period, allowing them to recoup the significant costs associated with research, development, and clinical trials.
Ubrelvy is protected by multiple patents. While some New Chemical Entity (NCE) exclusivity expired in December 2024, other patents covering the drug's formulation and use extend much further [1.3.1, 1.5.3]. The earliest estimated date for a potential generic entry into the market is January 30, 2035, with other patents extending as far as December 2041 [1.3.2, 1.5.2]. Generic manufacturers can challenge these patents, but until those challenges are successful or the patents expire, Ubrelvy will remain a brand-name-only drug [1.3.2].
Ubrelvy vs. Potential Future Generics: A Comparison
When a generic version of ubrogepant eventually becomes available, it will be required by the FDA to be bioequivalent to the brand-name drug. This means it will have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, and route of administration.
| Feature | Brand-Name Ubrelvy | Future Generic Ubrogepant |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Ubrogepant [1.2.2] | Ubrogepant |
| Dosage Strengths | 50 mg and 100 mg tablets [1.7.4] | Identical to brand-name version |
| Bioequivalence | N/A (Reference drug) | Must be proven bioequivalent to Ubrelvy |
| Appearance | Specific shape, color, and markings | Will differ in shape, color, or markings |
| Cost | High; retail price over $1,000 for 10 tablets [1.6.2] | Significantly lower than brand-name |
| Manufacturer | AbbVie Inc. [1.7.4] | Various generic manufacturers |
Alternatives to Ubrelvy for Migraine Treatment
While patients wait for a generic Ubrelvy, several other treatment options exist for acute migraine:
- Other Gepants: Nurtec ODT (rimegepant) and Zavzpret (zavegepant) are other CGRP inhibitors for acute treatment. Nurtec is an orally disintegrating tablet, and Zavzpret is a nasal spray [1.10.3, 1.10.5]. Like Ubrelvy, they are currently brand-name only [1.10.4].
- Triptans: This class of drugs, including sumatriptan (Imitrex) and rizatriptan (Maxalt), has long been a standard for acute migraine treatment. Many triptans are available as low-cost generics [1.2.1]. However, they may not be suitable for people with cardiovascular conditions [1.4.5].
- Ditans: Reyvow (lasmiditan) is another option for acute migraine that works differently from triptans and gepants [1.2.2, 1.10.3].
- NSAIDs and Analgesics: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen, naproxen, and Excedrin Migraine (acetaminophen/aspirin/caffeine) can be effective for milder migraines [1.2.1, 1.10.4].
How to Manage the Cost of Ubrelvy
The high cost of Ubrelvy can be a barrier for many. Without insurance, a pack of 10 tablets can cost over $1,000 [1.6.2]. Several strategies can help reduce this expense:
- Manufacturer Savings Programs: AbbVie offers the Ubrelvy Complete program, which includes a savings card that may significantly lower the out-of-pocket cost for commercially insured patients [1.2.2, 1.4.5].
- Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs): For those who are uninsured or underinsured, AbbVie's patient assistance program may provide the medication at no cost if eligibility requirements are met [1.2.5, 1.6.4].
- Insurance Coverage: Many insurance plans cover Ubrelvy, though they may require prior authorization or step therapy (trying less expensive alternatives first) [1.2.2, 1.4.5].
Conclusion
Currently, there is no generic version of Ubrelvy (ubrogepant), and one is not expected to be available until at least 2035 due to extensive patent protection [1.2.1, 1.3.2]. While this keeps the cost high, patients have several alternatives, from other new CGRP-targeting drugs to established, low-cost generic triptans. Individuals struggling with the cost of Ubrelvy should speak with their healthcare provider and explore manufacturer savings programs and patient assistance options to make the medication more accessible.
For more detailed information, consider visiting the official Ubrelvy website.
